ABOUT US
Meet Fishy, Our Heart and Inspiration
From Stray to Saved
Fishy’s story began on the streets of Lawton, OK, where he was known as the ever-elusive town stray. With a battered food bowl clutched in his mouth, Fishy wandered the neighborhoods, a silent plea for survival etched in every step. He was a ghost to some, a legend to others, and a heartbreaking sight to anyone who truly saw him—a reminder of how cruel life can be for those without a home.
For weeks, his future mom chased hope with a to-go bag always ready, dropping everything whenever Fishy’s location popped up on social media. Armed with sardines and a heart full of determination, she called out, "Fishy, Fishy, Fishy!" It was the only thing that made him pause. Slowly, cautiously, he would approach her scent of promise, the name sticking as a symbol of the trust she was earning. Six long weeks of near-misses and heartbreak led to the moment she finally wrapped him in safety—a defining moment for them both.

Now, Fishy is no longer the stray clutching a bowl; he’s the most loved dog, the face of resilience, and the spark that ignited a movement. His journey inspired the birth of Fishy’s Friends Rescue in early 2024, a foster-based organization dedicated to saving dogs like him—dogs with stories untold, hope deferred, and love desperately needed.
Today, Fishy’s name is more than a memory of his past. It’s a beacon of hope for every homeless dog we meet. Fishy’s Friends Rescue is proof that with compassion, determination, and a belief in second chances, lives can be transformed—just like his was. Together, we work to make sure every dog has the chance to move from hopeless to home.
Meet Our Amazing Team
Board of Executives
The Executive Board of Fishy’s Friends Rescue is the decision-making body responsible for overseeing operations, setting policies, and ensuring the rescue’s mission is upheld. Executive members have voting rights and play a direct role in shaping the rescue’s direction and priorities. They manage strategic planning, financial oversight, and organizational governance, ensuring transparency, accountability, and success in achieving our goals. Unlike trustees, who may serve in advisory or supporting roles without voting power, the Executive Board carries the responsibility of making final decisions that impact the future of Fishy’s Friends Rescue.
Athena (Fishy's Mom)
President/Founder
As Fishy’s Mom and founder, Athena leads Fishy’s Friends with the goal of uniting the community to save homeless dogs. She oversees the mission, vision, and strategies of the rescue, working to build a strong, lasting foundation for Fishy's Friends and ensuring every dog finds the love and care they deserve.
Susan (Sammy's Mom)
Vice President
Susan has been with Fishy’s Friends from the start, helping to rescue Fishy himself. As Vice President, she handles daily operations, supports the team, and ensures that the vision and mission are upheld. Her dedication helps drive Fishy’s Friends’ mission forward and creates a positive impact for the rescue.
Christy (Max's Mom)
Treasurer
A devoted dog mom and lifelong animal advocate, Christy brings both heart and expertise to the rescue. As Treasurer, she oversees the financial health of Fishy’s Friends, ensuring that every donation supports the mission. Her role helps maximize resources, so every dog receives top-quality care.
Sabine (Dodger's Mom)
Secretary
A rescue runs on organization, and as Secretary, Sabine keeps Fishy’s Friends Rescue running smoothly. From managing records to coordinating important communications, she helps keep everything on track.
Sabine has been a lifelong dog lover and rescuer, always stepping up for animals in need. Her most recent rescue, Dodger, is an FFR alum—and she wouldn’t have it any other way. Like the rest of us, she’ll take dogs over people any day, and we wouldn’t have it any other way either!
Board of Trustee's
The Trustee Board of Fishy’s Friends Rescue serves as a supportive and advisory body dedicated to advancing the rescue’s mission. Trustees provide guidance, expertise, and resources to help the Executive Board achieve the organization’s goals. While trustees do not hold voting rights, their contributions are invaluable in shaping the rescue’s strategic initiatives and ensuring its success.
Trustees act as ambassadors for the organization, advocating for its mission within the community and assisting in fundraising, networking, and resource development efforts. By offering insights and support without direct decision-making authority, the Trustee Board complements the Executive Board, fostering collaboration and a shared commitment to saving homeless dogs and uniting the community.
Together, the Trustee and Executive Boards form the backbone of Fishy’s Friends Rescue, working hand-in-paw to create a brighter future for every dog in need.
Andie (Cookie's Mom)
Foster Coordinator
Andie is a vibrant force on our team, bringing her compassion and dedication to both people and pets. While studying to become a nurse, she continues to give back by serving as our Foster Coordinator—screening foster applications, managing supplies, and ensuring every foster dog is set up for success. Her heart for rescue and keen attention to detail make her an invaluable part of our mission!
Mandy (DoodleBug's Mom)
Fundraising Coordinator
Mandy joined Fishy’s Friends with a passion for helping dogs and giving back to the community. As Fundraising Coordinator, she organizes events and campaigns to gather resources, creating promotional materials to raise awareness of the rescue. Her dedication ensures that Fishy’s Friends has the support needed to continue saving lives.
Shelly (Shadow's Mom)
Adoption Event Coordinator
Shelly’s passion for rescue runs deep, rooted in a family tradition of helping animals in need. As our Adoption Event Coordinator, she plays a vital role in giving dogs their second chance—overseeing events, knowing each dog's unique personality, and matching them with the perfect families. Her dedication ensures that every adoption is a success, bringing joy to both pets and their new humans.
Kailey (Scooby Doo's Mom)
Volunteer Coordinator
Kailey is the backbone of our volunteer program, overseeing and managing the amazing individuals who help keep the rescue running. Her journey with Fishy’s Friends began when she saved a dog on her own and reached out for support. Inspired by our mission, she has been a vital part of our team ever since.
Serenity
PAWsonality Specialist
Our youngest team member at just 10 years old, Serenity brings her love for dogs and joy to every task. She names our new rescues based on their unique personalities and helps at every microchip event, handing out treats to each dog. Serenity’s official title is "Paw-sonality Specialist," and her kindness is a gift to all our furry friends.
Meg
Community Engagement Fundraiser
Meg brings a wealth of experience in community outreach and a passion for connecting people with a cause. With a background as a vendor of goods and crafts, she understands the power of engagement and knows how to rally support. As our Community Engagement & Fundraising Coordinator, she oversees fundraising efforts and builds relationships to further our mission. A true animal lover—especially when it comes to dogs—Meg’s dedication and enthusiasm make her a huge asset to the team!
Kaylyn (Cooper's Mom)
Marketing & Outreach Coordinator
Kaylyn is a master at building connections and spreading the word about Fishy’s Friends Rescue. With her expertise in marketing and social media, she amplifies our mission, connecting with donors, sponsors, and the community. A lifelong dog lover, Kaylyn’s passion for animals drives her work, and she’s dedicated to using her skills to elevate our rescue’s visibility and impact. Her enthusiasm and commitment make her a vital part of the team!
Whitney (Harvey's Mom)
Microchip & Mobile Pet Nail Trim Specialist
Whitney is our dedicated Microchip Specialist, ensuring that community pets are safely microchipped for future reunions. Outside of her role with Fishy’s Friends, she operates a mobile nail trim service, helping local pets stay groomed and healthy. Whitney’s love for animals shines through in all she does, and her commitment to pet safety and care makes her an invaluable part of our team.
Amy (Frank's Mom)
Microchip & Grooming Specialist
Amy is our passionate Microchip Specialist, ensuring pets are safely microchipped to help reunite them with their families if ever lost. She also owns and operates Amy’s Park ‘n’ Bark Mobile Grooming, offering convenient grooming services to local pets. With her deep love for animals and commitment to their well-being, Amy is an integral part of Fishy’s Friends Rescue, helping to keep pets healthy and connected.
Get In Touch
Please reach out to the Fishy's Friends Rescue Team. We’re thrilled to connect with you and share our mission of saving lives.
Please be patient with us—we’re busy saving the world one tail at a time! We value you and will get back to you as soon as we’ve booped all the noses today.
